Father Ted & Coronation Street Star Passes Away Aged 91

She had been suffering from Alzheimer’s and died peacefully at St Columba’s Hospital in Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, her family confirmed.

The Irish actress played Concepta Regan in Coronation Street from the first episodes of the soap in 1960.

John Whiston, the Creative Director at ITV Studios, told the Mirror: “All at Coronation Street are sad to hear about the death of Doreen Keogh.

“There have been many barmaids in the Rovers over the years, dispensing pints and wisdom in equal measure. But Doreen played the first and so has a unique place not just in the history of the show but in the affection of all who watch The Street.”

Doreen also appeared in The Royal Family as dithery neighbour Mary Carroll also known as little Irish mary.

She also had a recurring role in Cold Feet and has appeared in many theatre productions, including with The Royal Shakespeare Company.

To us though, as fans of Irish comedy, we remember her best as Mrs. Dineen in Father Ted. Mrs. Dineen was a dear friend and antagonist of Mrs. Doyle. Take a look at the pair in action.

Sad news that a couple of people have mentioned tonight that Doreen Keogh who was Mrs Dineen in Father Ted and Mary in The Royle Family passed away on 31st December. pic.twitter.com/a3WB9s7gbl

Devastated to hear the sad news of Doreen Keogh's passing. I loved each and every one of her characters from across her career, from Concepta Hewitt in Corrie, Audrey Gifford in Cold Feet and of course The Royle Family's Mary.